This is a scam isn’t it?

[Namechabgeforthissss]

I’m pretty sure it is but I’m actually quite surprised by the tone of the messages now. I moved into a lovely neighbourhood and one of the neighbours same age kids as mine, same profession as mine too so we had a lot in common. I thought she was a lovely person with a lovely family so I wanted to get to know her more.

It started off with just a simple text asking if I wanted to make extra money on the side which I said I don’t have time right now as I’m still settling into new home and new job. Few weeks later another one and to be polite I asked details and she said I just need to give her £800 to become her partner on the business and then sign up at least 4 more people and I can earn £1200 a month! I told her again really politely I don’t have time do I won’t sign up. She’s messaged me again a few more times including this morning at 6am! Saying she really wants me to have this opportunity as it won’t come again. I obviously know it’s a scam but it’s put me off getting to know her better. Our kids are in same school so I wanted the kids to get friendly but I’m feeling like completely blanking her now. It’s such a pity as I think it would have been nice for the kids. Am I right to avoid her?

husband said it’s a pyramid scheme. I obviously will not be giving her any money on any grounds or signing up to some weird partnership

I wouldn't be engaging with any of that !

Did she tell you any more about the business a name or anything? It sounds like a MLM scam. If you want to remain friendly with her maybe ask her for more details and then tell her you’ve had a bad experience with them before or someone you know has. I know it’s not very direct and people will slate me for it, but if she’s going to be in your life for a while it would be better to be on good terms.

You are “pretty sure” this is a scam?

That is concerning

I did ask her and she was very vague. I asked her what I will be signing people up to she said “to help them save money on their bills”. She got quite intimidating if I’m honest and said she can come over now and go through the details and I can sign the contract! I come across as quite reserved so I think she thinks of me as an easy target. She also made it sound like £800 is nothing and I shouldn’t worry about it!

Sorry can you explain MLM scam pls?

Your H is right. It's a pyramid scheme.

Definitely don't get involved.

And yes it would really put me off getting to know her as she appears to see you as a money making opportunity rather than a potential friend.

Utilty Warehouse I am guessing.

Unfortunately OP has to match her neighbour's "hide of a rhino" energy. They have reams and reams of material designed to counter any sort of polite demurral and will not give up if they so much as smell any chink of a possibility - their own income relies on it! She must NOT accept any information or videos or links, or it will never stop.

Definitely a scam. No need to be polite. She clearly doesn't think much of you. She's looking out for herself!

https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/money-matters/5427677-botwatch-90-watching-the-world-of-mlm-which-is-still-claiming-victims-beware-the-recruiters-telling-you-theyre-super-successful-and-beware-the-ex-mlm-successes-now-calling-themselves-business-coaches

Thank you for the name, What does that mean pls?

Yes, of course it's a scam. Genuine competent business people do not try to create partnerships with people they met five minutes ago.

Block and move on.

It seems like it's an MLM but she's not even bothering to reel you in with a supposed 'product'. So yeah it's literally just like a chain letter thing, pyramid scam.

How awful that you thought she was a reasonable person when all she wanted was more victims! She's been scammed herself obviously but she won't listen if you try and explain that to her.

If you need to convince 4 people to sign over £800 your going to become very unpopular

Just block her. She isn't your friend..

Utility Warehouse doesn't ask for money up front from anyone,or at any time bar £10 a year to register.

Woah
have a coffee and get some fresh air

so if you’re 100% sure it is a scam, don’t waste your time navel gazing about it 🤷‍♀️

just send a firm message “not interested and don’t have the funds”

the latter point will shut her up

I’d reply with something friendly but clear - along the lines of “Hi Claire! As mentioned, I have no interest in joining so please don’t worry about sending me any more information. Speak soon.”
She’s probably borrowed her ‘buy in’ and is in debt to this. Absolutely don’t get involved!

And yep - just say you won't be getting involved in any of these schemes. No need to think of any fancy reasons. You don't have time. If you're brave you could add that you wouldn't want to do it even if you did have time, because it involves asking friends for money.

Agree it sounds like Utility Warehouse, and definitely an MLM/pyramid scheme. You will have to be direct and say you are not interested and will not reply to any more messages/calls about this.

Its basically a pyramid scheme
It MAY be possible to save money on utilities but the main point of it is to recruit other people to sell it and you get comission on their comission.
Look at MLM's - UW isn't the worst but it certainly is one

Thank you all. Yes it’s so bloody cheeky. I feel she targeted me as I was vulnerable (moving to new city, new home, new job etc) I really wanted to get to know my neighbours better but she’s put me off. I really felt at ease talking to her and usually I’m shy and awkward. But now I’m thinking it was her way to make me feel at ease. What a horrible person!

Just say, no thanks it's not for me, with a smile. And if she brings it up again say the same but with a frown. The third time say I've told you no don't ask me again.

Definitely avoid her, leave messages unread too. She’s probably tried to target other neighbours before you, if they see you being pally with her they may avoid getting to know you better. So by being neutral with her, opportunities to meet other neighbours may present themselves.
I remember selling my camper van a few years ago - a year later the buyer called me. She asked if I’d like to go out for a drink! I was flustered as I thought she may be asking advice on the camper. Then she said she had a great opportunity and had “thought of me” (yeah right - still had my number!) I politely declined and blocked. These people have thick skins but it also comes from a desperation as they’ve been hooked in. More difficult for you, I appreciate, hopefully you’ll meet other neighbours and be able to ignore this one.